Sponsorship
Corporate Partnership Program
Corporate partners have been essential to building Groundwork's legacy of innovative solutions that protect the environment, strengthen the economy and build livable, thriving communities. Learn why dozens of businesses and organizations support Groundwork's mission through this important program.
(Already know you'd like to join? Just complete this simple form.)
Corporate & Community Partnerships
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Groundwork’s Corporate Partnership Program?
This is an opportunity for local business partners whose missions align with Groundwork to offer financial support to further great work and advocacy across a multitude of communities. As a partner, you are creating an impact in this work while distinguishing your business or organization as a supporter and change-maker with like-minded audiences. Additionally, this program is a way to share more about your business’s values with your customers, clients, and partners, including expressing your commitment to philanthropy.
How will my donation to Groundwork be used?
Sponsorships go right to work into Groundwork solution-focused programming. When you join our list of community heroes, you select your program of choice that directly impacts that work. Partners choose from the following program areas:
- Groundwork’s General Fund, which can support a nimble need, like growing a new program, or serve a timely need, such as the Local Food Relief Fund, which at the onset of the pandemic linked farmers, pantries, and so many in need
- Climate & Environment
- Food & Farming
- Transportation & Design
What are the partnership levels?
- $10,000 Resilience Partner
- $5,000 Community Partner
- $2,500 Neighborhood Partner
- $1,000 Block Partner
What special benefits are included in my sponsorship?
- Recognition in Groundwork’s annual report
- Invitations to a private Corporate Partnership event
- Recognition in an email newsletter series highlighting Groundwork programs in conjunction with the annual report
- Quarterly updates from Groundwork program directors about how your gift has impacted the community
- Resilience and Community level partners receive a special showcase Q&A interview about their company or organization that will be shared via email to all Groundwork donors and followers and across social media.
How can I learn more about becoming a Corporate Sponsor of Groundwork?
Contact Meg Delor: meg.delor@groundworkcenter.org or call 231.941.6584 x 707.
Or join today using this simple form.
WHAT'S HAPPENING NOW?
Groundwork News
Casey Cowell Joins Groundwork Board
Tech entrepreneur, startup investor and philanthropist Casey Cowell has joined Groundwork’s Board of Directors. In 1976, Cowell and friends created U.S. Robotics, which developed the world’s first computer modem. The Cowell Cancer Center at Munson Medical Center in Traverse City recently opened, exemplifying his commitment to healthful communities. Cowell wants to help foster healthful communities in northern Michigan, as well as expand the region’s growing tech scene and create jobs in Traverse City.
Rail to Ann Arbor Project About to Roll Down the Tracks
A passenger rail study that will evaluate the feasibility of running regular train service between Petoskey, Traverse City and Ann Arbor is set to leave the station this spring, the Traverse Ticker reported in February. The “A2TC Train” study is a partnership between the Michigan Department of Transportation and the Groundwork Center.
A Place to Raise a Family: Shelli DiFranco’s Move to Traverse City
Shelli and Joey DiFranco got the ‘itch’ to move to Traverse City from Chicago after falling in love with the region’s natural beauty and a vibrant culinary scene. Shelli initially got a job with Hagerty Insurance, which allowed them to make the leap. They live outside town, in Leelanau County, with their son Renzo.